chain length

[IDAHOSPUD]

If i am putting a new chain on my bike what is the proper length. More specifically where do you want your wheel tensor in relation to the marks on the swingarm. I understand that the axle location makes the bike handle differently, but i dont have a complete understanding of it. I figure that i am putting a new chain on, i might as well set it up right.
Gearing 13/50 trails and woods. room for stretch. ect. I was thinking put it in the middle of the range on the tensors. thanks

[Jakobi]

Originally Posted by IDAHOSPUD

If i am putting a new chain on my bike what is the proper length. More specifically where do you want your wheel tensor in relation to the marks on the swingarm. I understand that the axle location makes the bike handle differently, but i dont have a complete understanding of it. I figure that i am putting a new chain on, i might as well set it up right.
Gearing 13/50 trails and woods. room for stretch. ect. I was thinking put it in the middle of the range on the tensors. thanks

I'll see if I can remember how many links I required when I went 13/50. The wheel blocks change the length of the wheel base. Shorter is less stable but quicker to turn and will lift the front easier. You want to factor in if you want to change between different sized sprockets and leave room for adjustment. You'll also possibly have the chain stretch some over time.

Measure thrice, cut once!

[wasp4banger]

If I run my wheel to far forward in the tensioners and then run a trials tyre, it rubs on the shock mudflap. I cut mine to start halfway back.

If you run different gearing you my need to factor this in before you cut it, some here run 52 on the rear, which needs more chain length.

If you start long, you can always cut it shorter, harder to cut it longer....

[lankydoug]

I try to run mine as far back as I can to make room for the growth of the trials tire at high speed. I buy a longer than needed chain and put the rear axle towards the back of the adjustment where I want it and cut the chain to length, slip on the master link, adjust it and call it done.

[Rick]

I think think my last chain was 118 links for a 13/51 gearing, with the rear wheel almost to the back of the swingarm.

[IDAHOSPUD]

Originally Posted by lankydoug

I try to run mine as far back as I can to make room for the growth of the trials tire at high speed. I buy a longer than needed chain and put the rear axle towards the back of the adjustment where I want it and cut the chain to length, slip on the master link, adjust it and call it done.

Had not even considered that, i have a trials tire that's going on it this spring. Good thought.